Third-generation K pop girl groups have significantly shaped the genre’s global appeal. These groups have harnessed immense talent and innovation to captivate domestic and international audiences.
Notable among these groups are Red Velvet from SM Entertainment, Blackpink from YG Entertainment, and TWICE from JYP Entertainment. Each debuted between 2012 and 2018, marking its place in the third-generation timeline of K pop.
The third generation of Kpop, from 2012 to 2018, saw a wave of new talent that redefined the genre’s reach and impact.
Girl groups during this period were not just musical acts but cultural phenomena. Their influence extended beyond music charts to fashion, endorsements, and global fandoms.
Groups like Mamamoo and WJSN have also significantly contributed to this transformative era, each bringing unique styles and strengths to the forefront of the industry.
These girl groups have set high standards for their successors and played a crucial role in the international proliferation of K-pop.
Mamamoo
Mamamoo, managed by RBW Entertainment, burst onto the K pop scene with their debut EP Hello on June 18, 2014. They quickly gained recognition for their impressive vocal performances and bold concepts, a rarity among their peers.
The group comprises four members: Solar, Moonbyul, Wheein, and Hwasa.
One of their early hits, “Mr. Ambiguous,” showcased their unique style and vocal prowess.
The group’s dynamic stage presence significantly influenced their rise to fame. The live performances, characterized by strong vocal harmonies and intricate dance routines, captivated audiences and set them apart from other K-pop groups.
Mamamoo achieved their first number one on the Gaon Album Chart with their EP Wind Flower. This release sold over 68,000 copies in just one week and secured the number seven spot on Billboard’s US World chart.
Their success continued with albums like Reality in Black and the EP White Wind, which topped the Gaon charts.
Highlights:
- Debuted: June 18, 2014
- Notable Members: Solar, Hwasa, Moonbyul, Wheein
- Key Hits: “Mr. Ambiguous,” “Décalcomanie“
- Major Albums: Wind Flower, Reality in Black, White Wind
- Achievements:
- First number one on Gaon Album Chart with Wind Flower
- Ranked number seven on Billboard’s US World chart
Mamamoo’s blend of powerful vocals, engaging live shows, and innovative musical concepts continue to earn them a dedicated fan base and recognition in the global music scene.
WJSN
WJSN, or Cosmic Girls, debuted under Starship Entertainment on February 25, 2016, with the extended play Would You Like? Their popularity grew steadily over the years.
In 2019, they achieved their first chart-topping album with the release of For the Summer.
This special summer release sold over 78,555 copies in just one week, securing the number 1 spot on South Korea’s Gaon (now Circle) Album Chart.
In addition to their musical achievements, WJSN reached new career heights by winning Mnet’s renowned reality show Queendom 2. This victory further solidified their place in the K pop industry.
Several members of WJSN have pursued successful solo projects. Bona has mainly made a name for herself in the acting world, starring in popular K-dramas such as Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022), Joseon Attorney (2023), and Pyramid Game (2024).
Their journey from debut to becoming chart-toppers and acting stars showcases the diverse talents within WJSN.
Red Velvet
Red Velvet, under SM Entertainment, is one of the leading third-generation K pop girl groups.
The group, comprised of Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri, debuted in 2014 with four members. A year later, Yeri joined before the release of their first mini-album.
Achievements and Recognition
- Albums and EPs: Red Velvet’s music has consistently topped the charts. They boast two studio albums and over ten extended plays that reached number one on South Korea’s Gaon Album chart.
- Awards: The group’s accolades are numerous. They have won the Daesang (Grand Prize) four times, including the:
- 2019 Asia Artist Awards Song Of The Year Grand Prize
- Golden Disc Awards Song Of The Year Digital Daesang in 2016, 2018, and 2021
Influence and Legacy
- Impact: Beyond accolades, Red Velvet has left a lasting impact on the K-pop industry. Their vocal harmonies and live performances have garnered them a devoted fan base.
- Critical Praise: In 2019, Billboard praised Red Velvet, calling them “the best idol group alive.” The magazine also highlighted their song “Red Flavor” as the second-best K-pop track of the 2010s.
Red Velvet’s dedication to music and performance resonates with fans and critics alike, cementing their place as icons in the K-pop world.
TWICE
TWICE, a prominent Kpop group under JYP Entertainment, has made an impressive mark in the music industry.
Debuting on October 24, 2015, with their EP The Story Begins, they quickly gained a massive following.
The group comprises nine talented members: Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu.
TWICE rose to fame with their hit singles like “Cheer Up,” “Signal,” and “TT.”
Each member contributes a unique charm and skill set to the team, making their performances captivating.
For instance, Momo is known for her exceptional dance skills, while Mina adds elegance with her graceful moves. Nayeon and Jihyo’s powerful vocals have also been crucial to their success.
Their journey to the top was further cemented by their winning the Daesang for Song of the Year at the 2017 Golden Disc Awards.
This prestigious award highlighted their dominance in the third-generation K-pop era.
In 2024, they achieved another milestone by securing their EP With Youth’s top spot on the Billboard 200.
This achievement placed them among the elite K-pop groups like BTS, Stray Kids, and BLACKPINK.
Youth demonstrated their unwavering popularity, selling over 90,000 physical copies in the United States and over a million copies in South Korea within a week.
Despite the emerging fourth-generation girl groups, TWICE’s influence remains significant.
The group’s latest hit, What is Love? It resonates with fans, showcasing their versatility and ability to adapt to new trends.
Their consistent performance and dedication have solidified their status as a K pop leading force.
BLACKPINK
YG Entertainment‘s groundbreaking group Blackpink has become the leading third-generation female K pop act since their debut.
The group, consisting of Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa, made a name for themselves globally with chart-topping hits and record-breaking album sales.
Blackpink’s studio albums achieved impressive sales milestones, with their second studio album, Born Pink, peaking at number one on the Billboard 200.
Within the first week of its release, over 101,500 copies were sold in the U.S. alone. This success underscores Blackpink’s significant impact on the global music scene.
- Debut: August 8, 2016
- Members: Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, Lisa
- Hit Singles: “Boombayah,” “Whistle,” “Kill This Love“
The group’s influence extends beyond music charts.
BLACKPINK’s Born Pink tour grossed over $331 million, making it the highest-earning girl group tour. This financial triumph highlights the group’s wide-reaching appeal and cemented their place in Kpop history.
BLACKPINK continues to stand out among other third-generation girl groups such as Momoland, Oh My Girl, Dreamcatcher, AOA, and EXID, showcasing their leadership in the industry.
Their versatile music style, strong performances, and dedicated fanbase contribute to their lasting legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are considered the top K pop girl groups of the 3rd generation?
The third generation of K pop girl groups includes many talented acts. Some of the most prominent ones are:
- BLACKPINK: Known for their global appeal and hit songs.
- TWICE: Popular for their catchy tunes and energetic performances.
- Red Velvet: Recognized for their versatile music styles.
- Mamamoo: Celebrated for their strong vocal performances.
Which songs are iconic to 3rd generation K-pop girl groups?
Several songs by third-generation K-pop girl groups have become iconic. These tracks have not only topped charts but also left a lasting impact:
How have 3rd generation Kpop girl groups influenced the industry?
Third-generation Kpop girl groups have brought several changes to the industry. They have:
- Globalized K-pop: Their music has reached international audiences, increasing global recognition.
- Set new trends: They have introduced new fashion and music trends that are widely emulated.
- Enhanced performance standards: Their elaborate stage performances have raised the bar for live shows.
Which 3rd generation K pop girl groups have achieved international success?
The third generation has seen several groups gain international fame. Some of the most successful are:
- BLACKPINK: Known for topping global charts and massive international tours.
- TWICE: With notable fanbases in Japan and the United States.
- Red Velvet: Has a strong presence in Southeast Asia and the Americas.
What are the distinctive features of 3rd generation K pop girl groups compared to previous generations?
The third-generation K pop girl groups stand out due to several distinctive features:
- Music Diversity: They experimented with multiple genres.
- Strong Visual Aesthetic: High emphasis on visual elements in music videos and performances.
- Global Outreach: Extensive use of social media to connect with fans worldwide.
How do the achievements of 3rd generation K pop girl groups compare with those of the 4th generation?
Comparing the third and fourth generations reveals several points:
- Music Sales: Both have impressive sales, but the third generation paved the way for the fourth with groundbreaking achievements.
- Social Media Presence: Fourth-generation groups often have a more substantial starting presence due to established platforms.
- Global Tours: Third-generation groups initiated widespread international tours. Meanwhile, fourth-generation groups are quickly catching up.
